Massachusetts State Police have released new details about a tragic wrong-way crash that claimed the life of 69-year-old Gail Lopes of Tiverton on Thursday night. Officials confirmed that Lopes was taken to a nearby hospital following the collision but did not survive her injuries. Her passing has left both the Tiverton and Somerset communities heartbroken, as friends, neighbors, and local residents try to make sense of the frightening events that unfolded on the Braga Bridge.
The crash happened around 7:45 p.m. on Interstate 195 East, a busy stretch connecting Fall River and Somerset. Investigators say Lopes was driving westbound in the eastbound lanes after entering the Somerset side of the bridge. Moments later, her vehicle struck another car, leading to an immediate emergency response. The wrong-way situation created serious risks for all drivers in the area, as traffic was heavy and visibility limited during the evening hours.
According to the office of Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III, first responders found three vehicles involved when they reached the scene. The two other cars had been traveling in the correct direction on I-195 East when they were hit by Lopes’ vehicle. Officials said both drivers in those cars suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities confirmed that each driver was alone in their vehicle when the impact occurred.
Before the collision, another driver recorded dramatic footage showing several vehicles swerving sharply to avoid the wrong-way Toyota sedan. The video, shared with ABC6, captured the chaotic moments as drivers tried to escape the unexpected danger in front of them. Officials have not released any updates regarding the individuals seen dodging the wrong-way vehicle in the recording. The footage, however, has highlighted how suddenly the situation developed and how narrowly more tragedy was avoided.
Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded quickly, working together to secure the bridge, treat the injured, and manage the growing traffic backup. Firefighters, EMS teams, state troopers, and local police spent hours at the scene as investigators documented vehicle positions, road markings, and other critical details. Parts of the bridge remained closed for several hours while crews removed debris and towed damaged vehicles from the roadway.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that caused Lopes to drive in the wrong direction. State police are reviewing witness statements, physical evidence, and traffic camera footage to determine how the crash happened. Community members have expressed condolences to the Lopes family, while officials urge drivers to stay alert and report any dangerous roadway behavior immediately.
